These shoes are ready to throw down. Reliably waterproof for long runs through gut-check conditions, they have a plush midsole for cushioning and aggressive lugs that lead you hurtle down steep drops. They skew toward the heavier end of the trail runner spectrum, but with the weight comes comfort, traction, durability, and the protection of a forefoot rockplace and rubber toe bumper.

'Minimal and natural' shoes offer low drop, lots of flex, and minimal cushioning. Most running shoes are 'Light and responsive' with medium cushioning and good energy return. 'Cushioned and floaty' shoes have maximum cushioning.

The drop is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot midsole cushioning. Traditional running shoes tend to have a 10mm drop or higher while minimalist style shoes are on the lower end of the spectrum.

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